What should I give my Yorkie for ticks? - briefly
Administer a veterinarian‑approved tick control product, such as a monthly topical (e.g., Frontline Plus) or an oral chew (e.g., Bravecto), using the dosage specified for a small‑breed dog. Consult your vet to confirm the safest option and arrange regular examinations.
What should I give my Yorkie for ticks? - in detail
Yorkies are small dogs, so any anti‑tick product must be sized and dosed appropriately. Begin with immediate removal of attached ticks: use fine‑pointed tweezers, grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, pull upward with steady pressure, and clean the site with antiseptic. After removal, monitor for signs of irritation or infection.
For ongoing protection, consider the following categories:
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Topical spot‑on treatments – products such as fipronil (Frontline) or selamectin (Revolution) are applied to the skin at the base of the neck. They spread across the coat within 24 hours and kill ticks for up to a month. Verify the label specifies a weight range that includes a 4‑lb Yorkie.
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Oral chewable tablets – afoxolaner (NexGard) and fluralaner (Bravecto) are administered by mouth. Doses are calculated per kilogram; the smallest available tablet size fits a Yorkie’s weight. These medications provide protection for 30 days (afoxolaner) or 12 weeks (fluralaner).
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Tick collars – collars containing imidacloprid and flumethrin (Seresto) release active ingredients continuously. A single collar protects a small dog for eight months. Ensure the collar fits snugly but allows two fingers to slide underneath.
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Environmental control – treat the home and yard with a pet‑safe acaricide, keep grass trimmed, and remove leaf litter. Regularly wash bedding in hot water and vacuum carpets to reduce tick habitats.
Key safety points:
- Confirm the product’s label lists the Yorkie’s weight range; overdosing can cause neurological or gastrointestinal effects.
- Avoid products containing permethrin on dogs, as it is toxic to canines.
- Do not combine multiple tick medications simultaneously without veterinary guidance.
- Schedule a veterinary exam before starting any new regimen, especially if the dog has a history of seizures, liver disease, or is pregnant.
If a tick is found attached for more than 24 hours, contact a veterinarian promptly. Some ticks transmit diseases such as Ehrlichiosis or Lyme disease; early detection and treatment improve outcomes. Blood tests may be recommended after exposure to confirm infection status.
In summary, effective tick management for a small breed includes proper removal, selection of a size‑appropriate topical or oral preventive, optional collar use, environmental hygiene, and veterinary oversight. Regular monitoring ensures the dog remains healthy and free of tick‑borne illnesses.